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Equine Arthritis in Horses

Treatment

Depending on the severity of the arthritis, your veterinarian may prescribe one of many courses of management for your horse. As stated above, there is no treatment for arthritis, only ways to help manage it and prevent it from progressing too quickly. For example, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a common management tool. An oral or injectable joint supplement, such as hyaluronic acid or glucosamine, may also be prescribed. Direct injection of the affected joint(s) with corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid may also help. New technologies, such as the injection of stem cells into affected joints are also being developed and offered by some veterinarians. Although you should not ride your horse when he is lame, keeping your horse moving will actually help an arthritic horse maintain suppleness and joint mobility. If an arthritic older horse is placed on strict stall rest he is likely to become even more stiff and sore than if he were in a pasture.

Living and Management

A horse with arthritis can be managed with a proper exercise program, medications and supplements, and even direct joint therapy. The extent of the management will vary greatly depending on the age of the horse and the work he is doing.